inspections guides
Used-Car Test Drive Checklist (2026)
A practical 20-minute route and checklist to evaluate mechanical health, safety systems, and hidden red flags before you buy.
10 Signs a Used Car Was in an Accident (Hidden Damage)
Beyond the CarFax: How to spot overspray, misaligned sensors, and pinched frame rails that dealers try to hide.
How to Spot a Flood-Damaged Car (Before Failure)
Flood cars rot from the inside out. Learn to check seat rails, hybrid batteries, and fuse boxes for the tell-tale signs of water intrusion.
Surface Rust vs. Structural Rot: When to Walk Away
A little orange fuzz is fine. A hole in the frame is fatal. Learn how to tell the difference with a simple screwdriver test.
The $20 Scan: How to Catch Simmering Problems
Dealers can turn off the Check Engine Light, but they can't hide from 'Permanent Codes' and 'Readiness Monitors'. Here is how to check them.
5 Inspection Red Flags to Walk Away From (Immediately)
CVT slip, AdBlue crystallization, and 'Milky Oil'. Some problems are too expensive to fix—just run.
Is That Ticking Warning You? Decoding Engine Noises
Direct Injection makes a healthy 'click'. Rod knock makes a deadly 'thud'. Learn the difference before you panic (or buy).
Brake & Steering: The 5-Minute Safety Audit
Check Electric Power Steering (EPS), rust on EV rotors, and ADAS alignment before you drive off.